Sunday Gospel: John 4:5-42 Third Sunday of Lent – Year A

Today’s Gospel features the story of Jesus’ meeting and conversation with a Samaritan woman who comes to draw water from a well. Before long into the discussion, Jesus reveals His knowledge of her marital status, prompting her to call Him a prophet and to engage Him in a discussion about the proper place to worship God. Jesus speaks of true worship being in the spirit not in buildings. At this point the woman recognises that Jesus might be the long awaited saviour – the Messiah, and Jesus confirms this by saying, ‘I am.’ The woman then goes as missionary to the village and the people come and invite Jesus to stay with them, and they recognise Him as the saviour of the world.

The woman of Samaria grows in her recognition of Jesus and her faith journey eventually propels her into a mission to her village who also come to faith.

This week, we might consider our own faith journey. Who are the people who have been part of our lives on this journey?

Journey with Jesus Retreat Day

Last Friday, Stage Three participated in a Journey with Jesus Retreat Day run by CSYMI and our Youth Minister, Maddie. There were also 6 other Youth Ministers from around the diocese present. During the day, the team used the metaphor of a backpack to explain the journey we all travel on as we deepen our relationship with Jesus. The day was full of ice-breakers, testimonies and opportunities of small groups to sit and unpack the theme of the day.

Parish/School Mass, Presentation of Reconciliation Candidates

This Sunday, 15^th March we will be having our first Parish/School Mass for 2020. During the Mass, the candidates for Reconciliation will be presented to the community. I invite all members of the community to join us at this Mass as we acknowledge these candidates and the progression they’ve made on their faith journey.

Project Compassion 2020

The annual Caritas Australia Project Compassion Appeal is now on. Donations to Project Compassion allow Caritas Australia, the Catholic Agency for International Aid and Development, to work with local communities around the world to alleviate poverty, hunger, oppression and injustice.

Each Classroom at Sts Peter and Paul has a Project Compassion box for their donations or if you prefer, you can donate online via the website at https://lent.caritas.org.au/sts-peter-paul-garran.

Harmony Day

Please note that due to an unavoidable clash in the calendar, we have moved our Harmony Day celebration to Monday 23^rd March.

On this day, children are invited to wear orange or cultural dress instead of their uniform to mark this special day. Each class will participate in various activities to celebrate the significance of this day.

Sacrament of Reconciliation 2020

The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated in the Parish of the Transfiguration, North Woden on Thursday, 2nd April at 6:00 pm at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Curtin 

I encourage the community to pray for these children as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of First Reconciliation.

Many thanks to all of the wonderful parents who volunteered to lead a home group, we couldn’t do it without you!

Sts Peter and Paul Playgroup – Friday 14^th March

A reminder that the Sts Peter and Paul Playgroup will be running again this year. This year we will be holding the playgroup in our Japanese classroom, and the adjoining courtyard. All parents and carers from the community are invited to come along with their children aged 0-5. The playgroup runs every second week during school terms from 9:30-11am (Even weeks). Please bring morning tea and a water bottle for your child. Contact me for any further information.

Dates for your Diary:

Blessings for the week ahead,

Stephanie Burns

Religious Education Coordinator